Relocating power lines raises New Albany street-project costs

Improvements to Main Street in New Albany will cost more because the city has asked American Electric Power to move utility poles and lines.

LORI WINCE, ThisWeek Community News

Improvements to Main Street in New Albany will cost more because the city has asked American Electric Power to move utility poles and lines.

City Manager Joseph Stefanov said the project cost has increased from $1.3?million to $1.8 million.

Some of the power lines and poles will be removed from the right of way on the east side of Eagles Villa Pizza, 2 N. High St. Other lines on portions of Main and High streets will be buried in the alley behind the restaurant, he said.

The telecommunication and cable lines will be relocated to an underground conduit bank that will be built in the Main Street right of way.

“Due to the manner in which the power system functions, the relocation of power lines on Main Street will also require the relocation of power lines on High Street,” he said.

Stefanov said the road will remain open during construction and power in the area will be retained even when power lines and poles are moved.